Analysis
Madonna University's International Business program appears positioned in the middle tier of Michigan's market, with peer programs suggesting first-year earnings around $58,746—a figure that aligns with the state median and exceeds the national benchmark of $49,890. The estimated $25,000 in debt produces a manageable debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.43, meaning graduates would owe roughly 5 months of their first-year salary.
What's harder to assess is trajectory. International business careers can vary dramatically based on employer type, industry sector, and whether graduates leverage language skills or global supply chain expertise. The wide range among Michigan programs—from Eastern Michigan's $31,476 to Wayne State's $59,350—suggests outcomes depend heavily on individual placement rather than degree alone. Madonna's 93% admission rate and modest test scores indicate it serves a different student population than selective competitors, which may affect both the campus recruiting environment and alumni networks that often matter in business fields.
The debt load appears reasonable if those estimated earnings hold, but recognize you're making a decision with limited visibility into this specific program's track record. If your child has admission offers from programs with reported outcomes—like Wayne State or Grand Valley State—those provide clearer pictures of what to expect.
Where Madonna University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all international business bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in Michigan
International Business bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Michigan (18 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $27,360 | $58,746* | — | $25,000* | — | |
| $14,297 | $59,350* | $72,684 | $23,472* | 0.40 | |
| $14,628 | $58,746* | $72,435 | $24,397* | 0.42 | |
| $15,510 | $31,476* | — | $25,330* | 0.80 | |
| National Median | — | $49,890* | — | $23,472* | 0.47 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with international business graduates
Chief Executives
Chief Sustainability Officers
General and Operations Managers
Business Teachers, Postsecondary
Business Operations Specialists, All Other
Business Continuity Planners
Sustainability Specialists
Online Merchants
Security Management Specialists
About This Data
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard (October 2025 release)
Population: Graduates who received federal financial aid (Title IV grants or loans). At Madonna University, approximately 30% of students receive Pell grants. Students who did not receive federal aid are not included in these figures.
Earnings: Median earnings from IRS W-2 data for graduates who are employed and not enrolled in further education, measured 1 year after completion. Earnings are pre-tax and include wages, salaries, and self-employment income.
Debt: Median cumulative federal loan debt at graduation. Does not include private loans or Parent PLUS loans borrowed on behalf of students.
Estimated Earnings: Actual earnings data is not available for this program (typically due to privacy thresholds when fewer than 30 graduates reported earnings). The estimate shown is based on the median of 3 similar programs in MI. Actual outcomes may vary.